The Real Christmas

The other day, I posted my “Christmas Time” blog that talked about shopping and family…or lack of it, yes I was a bit whinny but I use writing as a way to let go of what is weighing on my heart in hopes I can move forward, and I am forever thankful you don’t tar and feather me for some of the things I write about. Now let’s get to the nitty gritty and talk about Christmas.

We all know the real meaning of Christmas is the birth of Jesus Christ…who loves all of us; gives us hope for today and a promise of tomorrow. Every twinkling light, every hug, every cheek kissed by someone that loves you, every smile and every “I love you” is so important; I love all of it and I would never take away from any of it, but Christmas morning is about Jesus and how God, our Father, gave Him life, so we can have everlasting life. I hope you can set some time aside to thank Him for what He is in your life, the life of your loved ones, and that you believe He is really who He says He is, and that you know He is there for you. If this is not how you feel…I’m here to help you along the way, you need only ask. Maybe “religion” has swayed you away, and I get that. I don’t care either way for organized religion, it’s my relationship with Jesus that I care about. Unfortunately, being a Christian get a bad rap because people have a misconception of what being a Christian is. Yes, I want to share my faith with you, because I love you. And I know without Him, my live would be so much less than it is now. Do bad things happen to me, you bet. Do I argue with my husband…yes. Life isn’t perfect for any of us, but in my times of struggle, He is who I turn too, He listens and cares for each tear I shed. I’d like to quote a statement I feel sums up my Christianity:

When I say “I am a Christian,” I am not shouting that “I am clean living.” I’m whispering “I was lost, but now I’m found and forgiven.”

When I say “I am a Christian,” I don’t speak of this with pride. I’m confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say “I am a Christian,” I’m not trying to be strong. I’m professing that I’m weak and need His strength to carry on.

When I say “I am a Christian,” I’m not bragging of success. I’m admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.

When I say “I am a Christian,” I’m not claiming to be perfect. My flaws are far too visible, but God believes I am worth it.

When I say “I am a Christian,” I still feel the sting of pain. I have my share of heartaches, so I call upon His name.

When I say “I am a Christian,” I’m not holier than thou. I’m just a simple sinner who received God’s good grace, somehow!

I’ve posted this before, always hoping someone that does not know Jesus will feel the need and desire to reach out for Him. I hope that helps you understand my passion as well. You only need to ask to receive His good grace and love.

I’d like to wish you all a true Merry Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, and remember, being a Christian is like having a warm blanket around you in the cold, a refreshing drink when you are thirsty, a hand to hold when you are lost and a shoulder to cry on in your darkest days.